Non-Member State Postdoc Fellowship Programme (Theoretical Physics)

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe. Using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments, they study the basic constituents of matter - fundamental particles that are made to collide together at close to the speed of light. The process gives physicists clues about how particles interact, and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature. Find out more on http://home.cern.ch

Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organization.

Welcome to the Non-Member State Postdoc Fellowship Programme (Theoretical Physics)

Two postdoctoral fellowships are awarded each year by the Non-Member State Fellowship Programme in Theoretical Physics. The Fellowship is granted for two years and can exceptionally be extended to a third year.

In order to qualify for one of these prestigious Fellowships you will need to meet the following requirements:

• You are *not* a national of a CERN Member State or Associated member states. Nationals from CERN Member States or Associated member states (irrespective of their current place of study and/or residence) should apply to the 'Standard' Fellowship Programme).
• You have a PhD in theoretical physics (or the defense date is already scheduled). In any event, you should have finished your PhD studies by the time you take up your appointment at CERN.
• You have no more than 6 years’ research experience after completion of your PhD degree.
• Please note that CERN Staff members are not eligible to apply for a Fellowship.

CERN would very much like to benefit from your expertise, commitment and passion. In return, CERN will provide you with:

• An employment contract for in principle 24 months, with a possible extension up to 36 months.
• A stipend ranging from 6,911 to 7,326 Swiss francs per month (net of tax).
• Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
• Depending on your individual circumstances: an installation grant, family, child and infant allowances as well as travel expenses to and from Geneva.
• 2.5 days of paid leave per month.

This is how you can apply:

You will need the following documents (in PDF format, as separate files) to complete your application:

• A CV.
• Your most recent relevant qualification.
• A statement of research interests highlighting your plans for the research fellowship.
• Three recent letters of recommendation (not older than a year at the time of the deadline for applications) giving an overview of your academic and/or professional achievements.• You will be provided with a link as soon as you have submitted your application to forward to your referees to upload their letters confidentially. Please note this must be done before the closing date. You can also upload these letters at the time of the application if you have them to hand.

Ready to take part? Then please submit your application by 3rd November 2025 at midnight (23:59 AM CEST). 

Please make sure you have all the documents needed to hand as you start your application, as once it is submitted, you will not be able to upload any documents or edit your application further.